Hawaiian Pineapple Cake: A Taste of the Tropics in Every Bite

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is moist, flavorful, and loaded with pineapple goodness. A perfect dessert for any occasion with a tropical twist.

1. Introduction

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the tropics in every bite. Bursting with the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple, this cake is incredibly moist and light, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a festive gathering, or just craving something sweet, this cake brings a taste of Hawaii to your table. The magic of this cake lies in its simplicity—using crushed pineapple in the batter infuses the cake with natural sweetness and a tender crumb, while a creamy frosting adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a cake that’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. One bite of this tropical delight, and you’ll feel like you’re on a sunny Hawaiian beach, no matter where you are.

2. Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Frosting:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for garnish)

3. Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, undrained crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
4. Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped nuts over the frosting as a garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

4. How to Prepare

Making Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is as easy as mixing the ingredients and baking. Start by combining the dry ingredients with the wet, creating a simple batter that’s infused with the natural sweetness of crushed pineapple. The cake bakes to a golden perfection in under 40 minutes. While the cake cools, prepare a rich cream cheese frosting that complements the tangy pineapple. Once frosted, the cake can be topped with coconut and nuts for an extra tropical flair. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

5. Preparation Time

• Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

6. Servings

This recipe serves about 12-16 people, depending on the size of the slices.

7. FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply puree it to get a similar texture to crushed pineapple. However, you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly.

Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving. Store the unfrosted cake at room temperature and the frosting in the refrigerator.

Q3: What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting? You can use mascarpone or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the frosting. Just be aware that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Q4: Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best results.

Q5: How should I store leftovers? Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

8. Conclusion

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dessert that brings a bit of tropical paradise to your kitchen. With its moist texture and bright, fruity flavor, it’s a cake that’s sure to impress both family and friends. The combination of the sweet pineapple and the creamy frosting creates a balanced dessert that’s not too heavy, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The ease of preparation and the delightful taste make it a go-to recipe for anyone who loves a good, homemade dessert with a tropical twist. Enjoy a slice of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny island getaway!